Indonesia has confirmed plans to buy 42 Chinese-made Chengdu J-10C fighter jets in a deal worth more than $9 billion, marking a major shift in Jakarta’s defense modernization strategy. Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin said the jets “will be flying over Jakarta soon,” while Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stated that the budget “has already been greenlit” and “everything should be ready.”

Budget Signals and Procurement Plans

Finance Minister Sadewa said his ministry “had given what he [the defense minister] had requested,” confirming funds for the Chinese jets were already set aside for 2025–26. The purchase fits President Prabowo Subianto’s push to modernize the military and reduce Western dependence.

Jakarta’s outreach to France, Russia, Türkiye, China, and the U.S. reflects a strategy of flexibility amid global competition. Analysts view the move as both cost-driven and strategic, underscoring Indonesia’s growing focus on defense self-reliance.

Why the J-10C Matters

The J-10C is a 4.5-generation multirole fighter featuring an AESA radar, advanced avionics, and PL-15 long-range missiles. Already deployed by Pakistan, the aircraft offers strong performance at a moderate cost. For Indonesia, it provides a rapid capability boost while awaiting the arrival of French Rafales in 2026.

Defense observers say the acquisition will strengthen air patrols across maritime zones and fill operational gaps left by aging F-16 and Su-30 fleets.

Strategic Balancing and Regional Impact

Defense Minister Sjamsoeddin’s comment that J-10s will “be flying over Jakarta soon” indicates final talks with Beijing are done, expanding Indonesia’s airpower and deepening—but pragmatically—its defense ties with China.

Analysts warn the move may “spark sensitivities” in Southeast Asia amid South China Sea tensions, with Beni Sukadis noting it “could signal a shift in security orientation” despite Jakarta’s non-alignment.